Robbie Keane expecting Gyasi Zardes to shine in the midfield in 2014

CARSON, Calif. -- Gyasi Zardes entered the preseason as something of a forgotten man with the LA Galaxy’s new additions grabbing the headlines, but the forward has staked his claim to start in Saturday’s season opener against Real Salt Lake.

The second-year attacker has been revitalized this preseason as he has appeared to shake off the finishing woes that plagued him in his rookie season. Just where he ends up on the field still remains a question mark, however, as he has had some of his greatest success playing on the right side of midfield and up top.

However, ask one of his more accomplished teammates about where Zardes should play and the answer is a simple one.

“His best position [in midfield] whether it’s on the left or the right hand side because he’s quick and can beat people,” said LA captain Robbie Keane who is quick to praise Zardes for his improved finishing this preseason. “It’s all well and good to be doing it during the preseason, but it’s about doing it when the real business starts.”

When told of Keane’s declaration, Zardes agrees, “I feel like I’m good in the midfield. I feel like I pose a threat and can get the ball to the forward’s feet."

But at times, when Zardes pushes forward, it changes the Galaxy’s formation as their 4-4-2 formation evolves into an apparent 4-3-3, something that the second-year attacker is keenly aware of.

“I’m always pushing into the attack,” said Zardes of his positioning on the field. “I don’t know what the coaches have in mind, but wherever they use me whether it’s as a forward or in midfield, I’m going to try to be a threat.”

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Think Zardes will get the start out wide on Saturday? Think StefanIshizaki will start?